For all the Wolverines' defensive deficiencies - Penn State started the second half by hitting 7 of 10 shots to close to 43-41 with 17 minutes to play - Michigan knew it could turn on the juice when necessary.

After the Nittany Lions threatened, Michigan ripped off a 17-4 run to take control of the game, shooting 58% in the second half.

As this team usually does, it came with balance as four different players scored with Stauskas twice from the outside and Hoford with a close baseline jumper, Caris LeVert with a fast break and-one layup and a Robinson alley-oop.

With the lead back to 15, Michigan finally was comfortable again, despite struggling on defense.

The first half was another example of unrestrained excess as both teams shot 50% or above as Michigan held a 40-33 halftime lead.

The point guard battle started with Walton scoring the game's first eight points, on his way to 12 by halftime. Just as he got started spreading the ball around, Penn State's Tim Frazier started bringing his team back with 11 by the break.

The Wolverines had pushed their lead to 13 points just a minute and a half before halftime.

Then Penn State ripped off a 10-0 run over the end of the half and the start of the second, reminding the Wolverines that they would have to play the second half.